Recap: This narrative details Singapore’s transition from a heavily militarized colonial fortress, built for defense, to a rapidly conquered territory following the Japanese invasion. The history highlights the rapid collapse of the British defense due to modern Japanese tactics and the subsequent three years of brutal occupation, while also paying tribute to the unparalleled resilience, heroism, and cultural survival demonstrated by the local population and POWs.
Previous posts in this series:
- Ancient Roots
- British Fortress
- Colonial Defense
- December 1941
- Entry into Malaya
- Fall of Sarimbun
- Gap in Defense
- Heroism of Malay Regiment
- Infantry
- Killings at Alexandra
- Lieutenant Adnan Saidi
- Massacre at the Ridge
- Negotiation at Ford Factory
- Occupation Begins
- Prisoners of War (PoW)
- Quarters of Changi
- Religious Solace (Changi Chapel)
- Stanley Warren’s Murals
19/26: Treatment of POWs
This post discusses the crucial and significant protest known as the Selarang Incident, and also touches upon the resilient spirit and positive camaraderie found within the camp.
Selarang Incident
This was a non-violent protest that took place in September 1942. After four POWs attempted an escape, they were eventually captured.
Angered by this, the Japanese ordered all POWs to sign a pledge vowing that they would never escape again. British and Australian POWs refused to sign, stating that escaping was a duty of a soldier.
As a punishment, 15,400 soldiers were locked in a parade square. Over the next four days, facing the scorching sun, inadequate water and food, and no proper toilet facilities, dysentery spread rapidly. Ultimately, to save their lives, they agreed to sign later.
The food provided was horrible; they were given only rice and salt, and sometimes rotten vegetables. Beriberi spread due to Vitamin B1 deficiency, and many POWs affected by this were unable to walk because their legs were swollen and their nerves were damaged.
The Red Cross sent bags of medicine, food, and letters, but the Japanese guards either did not allow the supplies or sometimes confiscated them for themselves, which increased the overall mortality rate. The conditions for Indian POWs were reportedly the worst, as they did not receive the same international aid.
The Selarang Incident was not a failure; it is a prime example of the profound unity among the POWs. The stories we see in the CCM today all stem from that powerful protest.
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This post is a part of BlogchatterA2Z Challenge 2026 http://www.theblogchatter.com/
This 26-post series for the 2026 A2Z challenge explores Singapore’s WWII heritage, from the initial invasion to the liberation of Changi Prison. Using concise storytelling, I try to connect historical lessons of sacrifice and the need for peace all around the world.